Nitrate & Nitrite Free Orange Cinnamon Agua Fresca
Bright, citrusy, and lightly spiced, this agua fresca is the kind of drink that makes you feel like you're sitting somewhere sunny even on the most ordinary afternoon. Fresh navel oranges are blended with a homemade cinnamon tea — just a single stick simmered in water until fragrant — then strained into a pitcher for a beautifully smooth, refreshing result. Maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that feels natural and unprocessed, which is exactly what you want when you're being mindful about what goes into your glass. Every single ingredient here is whole and clean, so there's no need to squint at a label or wonder about hidden additives the way you might with bottled juices or flavored drinks. The straining step is worth the extra minute — it gives the final drink a silky, almost elegant texture that's a world away from pulpy orange juice. Serve it over plenty of ice with an orange wedge on the rim and it looks as good as it tastes.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 large navel oranges, peeled and segmented (about 3 cups flesh)
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp fine salt
For the cinnamon tea
- 1 cup water, for the cinnamon tea
For serving
- ice, for serving
- orange slices or wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the cinnamon stick and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until the water is lightly amber and fragrant. Remove from heat and let the cinnamon tea cool for 15 minutes, then discard the cinnamon stick.
- 2
Add the orange segments, cooled cinnamon tea, 2 cups cold water, maple syrup, and salt to a blender. Blend on high for 30–45 seconds, until completely smooth.
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